Skip to content
1872–1906

WHAT'S THE USE

Paul Laurence Dunbar

What's the use o’ folks a-frownin’ When the way's a little rough? Frowns lay out the road fur smilin’ You'll be wrinkled soon enough.

What's the use? What's the use o’ folks a-sighin’? It's an awful waste o’ breath, An’ a body can n't stand wastin’

What he needs so bad in death. What's the use? What's the use o’ even weepin’? Might as well go long an’ smile.

Life, our longest, strongest arrow, Only lasts a little while. What's the use?

Cookies on Poetry Cove

We use cookies to remember your language preference and — only with your consent — to learn how Poetry Cove is used. You can change your mind any time.
WHAT'S THE USE · Paul Laurence Dunbar · Poetry Cove